Swann School of Dance opens in Harwich

Emilia Swann, from Harwich, has turned her passion into her profession at a very young age and has grown a successful business by teaching children and adults how to dance. 

Having been a dancer herself from the age of six and competing in national and international competitions, Emilia found herself trapped during the Covid pandemic. 

She said: “Since I started dancing, I have always wanted to teach. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.” 

During the pandemic years, Emilia started her theory lessons to become a teacher and as soon as social distancing rules eased, she gave her first lessons at the young age of 16. 

Now, she is not only a qualified teacher with accreditation by the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing for ballroom and Latin dance, but she has opened her first studio on Harwich’s High Street. 

“I started my dance school with three students and hired halls around the area. 

“When the opportunity arose, my family said to me there is no time like the present and we took a leap of faith and just went for it.” 

Swann School of Dance was inspired by Emilia’s love for the sport and the many memories she made during her years as a competitive dancer. 

Her last name seemed a good fit to combine the elegance of dancing with honouring her family, who keep supporting her. 

“I learned so much from becoming a teacher, it’s different to learning as a competitor because you go back to the basics. 

“It wasn’t difficult, but a whole different perspective.” 

The final paperwork for the new location has been approved and renovations have been made, with a special floor installed, the premises repainted, and a wall torn down to reach an adequate size. 

“I want to keep improving the studio and would like to have more mirrors on the walls in the future, so my students can see themselves properly. 

“I also want to offer more classes and social events not only for dancers but for the community here in Harwich and Dovercourt."